What issue did Lester Maddox emphasize during his governorship that won support from the African American community?

Lester Maddox's governorship is most notably recognized for his emphasis on prison reform. One of the significant aspects of his time in office was the push for changes in the prison system, which aimed to improve conditions and address various injustices faced by inmates. This focus on reform resonated with the African American community, particularly as many African Americans were disproportionately affected by issues within the criminal justice and prison systems. While Maddox's earlier policies and public stances on segregation were highly controversial and often alienated many voters, his later efforts to reform prisons and advocate for better treatment of inmates sought to build bridges and foster support from communities that had previously been marginalized.

In contrast, other areas such as education reform or economic strategies may not have been specifically highlighted during his tenure or may not have had the same direct impact on the African American community. Segregation policies, while a focal point of his earlier governance, ultimately alienated rather than united communities. Therefore, the focus on prison reform stands out as a significant step towards gaining support from the African American community during his governorship.